‘I know this is the right decision, although it has not been an easy one to make’
Popular bistro Delve in Delph, Saddleworth has sadly closed its doors with immediate effect(Image: Delve )
The owners of a top restaurant in Oldham have announced they have closed the doors with immediate effect just weeks after putting the venue up for sale.
First opened in a former bank building in 2024, Delve, in the picturesque village of Delph in Saddleworth, has become a popular bistro with its breakfasts, brunches, small plates and Sunday lunches earning particular acclaim. Popular additions to its menu included The Dutch Puff, a German-style pancake, as well as Tiramisu French Toast, Hot Roast Beef sandwiches with ‘proper gravy’, deep-fried lasagne and a king prawn mafaldine.
Named after the Anglo-Saxon meaning to ‘dig’ or ‘quarry’, which paid reference to the Delph village’s origins as well as the bakestone quarries used to bake oatcakes and muffins in the 13th century. As well as its expansive food and drink menu, the restaurant also hosted live music, events and private parties.
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Earlier this year, owner Jamie Collins announced he was looking to sell Delve, citing his reasons as being due to family circumstances. At the time, he had explained the business would still trade as normal until a new owner was found.
However, in a post on social media on Wednesday evening (March 18), Jamie confirmed the restaurant, on King Street, had now closed. In the post, he said: “It is with a heavy heart that I announce the closure of Delve with immediate effect. After careful consideration of personal and professional factors, I know this is the right decision, although it has not been an easy one to make.
The bistro opened in 2024 and became known for its breakfast and brunch menus as well as for its Sunday roast dinner(Image: Delve)
“Delve has meant so much to me and I am incredibly grateful for all of the support. All suppliers and staff will be paid in full and will be contacted in due course. I can only thank you for your support.”
Jamie also said that those with vouchers could reach out to him directly to arrange a full refund, or could use it at their sister site Diggle Lock, situated within a re-purposed textile mill on the edge of the Pennine moorland, which is unaffected by the announcement and remains open as normal.
The announcement received a number of messages from members of the local community, who shared how much the restaurant meant to them whilst also backing Jamie’s decision. One person wrote: “You’re going to be missed, thanks for the amazing food and memories. What will we do without your incredible Sunday roasts.”
Owner Jamie Collins said it was ‘with a heavy heart’ that he had made the decision to shut
Another said: “So sorry to read this. A great eating place. Wishing you all the best.” One more posted: “Oh I’m sorry, you have been an amazing addition to Delph.” Another wrote: “Our little village is closing shop! What sad news again! Wish you loads of luck.”
During a Sunday lunch service in December, the business was also left with empty tables as a number of pre-booked groups did not turn up, and several tables were cancelled at short notice. In response, Jamie pleaded with customers to give as much notice as they can to prevent ’empty tables’ and ‘wasted food’.
Following the incident, he brought in a deposit system on bookings with over four guests, calling it a ‘necessary change’ to look after the business. The move received the backing of local residents and regular diners.